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Illinois HoopStars and Illinois Heat are united in their commitment to complete athlete development through:
Skill-based training and fundamentals development
Competitive travel and exposure opportunities
Advanced performance resources and training technology
Mentorship and character-building programming
Together, our programs prepare athletes for success on and off the court by emphasizing discipline, teamwork, leadership, academic accountability, and personal growth.
The mission of Illinois HoopStars and Illinois Heat is to empower youth athletes through competition, character development, and life skills, preparing them to succeed on the court, in the classroom, and as future leaders in their communities.
Illinois HoopStars was founded in 2002 by Lynda Paul, mother of 2009 Illinois Mr. Basketball Brandon Paul. She established the program to provide her sons with collegiate exposure, a mission that proved successful as they earned Division I basketball scholarships.
In 2018, Illinois HoopStars was reestablished by Cliff Paul and Dalé Omotoyinbo, whose partnership began while attending the University of Illinois. Together, they expanded their impact by operating after-school youth programs and basketball camps throughout the Chicagoland area. Their shared vision continues to guide Illinois HoopStars’ commitment to opportunity, mentorship, and high-level competition.
Illinois Heat, operating under the Illinois Youth Basketball Association, adds a legacy of over 30 years of youth basketball leadership. Founded in 1991 by Terry Head, the organization has grown into one of the region’s most respected programs, offering development pathways for athletes of all ages and skill levels while emphasizing fundamentals, character, and competitive growth.
Beginning this year, the collaboration between Illinois HoopStars and Illinois Heat represents a powerful combination of tradition, leadership, and player development expertise — expanding opportunities, enhancing training resources, and strengthening pathways for athletes pursuing success at the high school and collegiate levels.